I am intrigued by the Rangers signing of 37-year-old Blake Wheeler this off-season to a one year, $800k contract. Wheeler had seven consecutive superstar seasons from 2015 to 2021 where he averaged around 1.00 PPG. Last season, he saw a slight regression by averaging .76 PPG, which qualifies as a star season by hockeyprospecting’s model. He also demonstrated a GAR of 3.6, which factors into Evolving Hockey’s SPAR model illustrating Wheeler’s on ice value at $3.19 million. Taking those numbers into consideration, it is viable that Wheeler will provide exceptional value for the price tag he signed for. Also of note, per Capfriendly, Wheeler’s deal has up to $300k in potential performance bonuses, which if earned would count against their 24-25 salary cap.

Wheeler will either slot in on the second line or third line for the New York Rangers, If deployed on the second line by new coach, Peter Laviolette, he could see offensive zone time with superstar winger Artemi Panarin (1.12 PPG), superstar defenseman Adam Fox (.88 PPG) and star center Vincent Trocheck (.78PPG). Laviolette could also opt, based on Wheeler’s veteran status and noted offensive proficiency, to play him on the third line with fledgling playmaker Alexis Lafreniere and the ever-reliable Filip Chytil. In either instance, Wheeler will provide immense value in the offensive zone barring an unprecedented drop-off in his production. Taking all of these factors into account, Wheeler should aid the Rangers in making another deep playoff run in a division with two undisputable goliaths in New Jersey and Carolina.

-Damien